Maria Śmietanka PhD. has been connected with the research and innovation ecosystem throughout her professional career. Her scientific expertise spans environmental protection, remote sensing, and sustainable solutions.

For nearly a decade, Maria Śmietanka has been a vital part of the National Contact Point (NCP) for EU Research Programmes in Poland. She has played a crucial role in supporting Polish participation in successive European Union research and innovation programs, including Horizon 2020 and the current Horizon Europe.

In her current role as Deputy Director of the National Contact Point, operating within the structures of the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR), Maria Śmietanka helps to coordinate the official Polish support system. Her leadership and dedication have been instrumental in fostering international research collaborations and advancing Poland’s contributions to cutting-edge scientific and technological developments.